Born: 1942 in Aizu Wakamatsu, Japan

1963  Graduated from Women’s Junior College of Fine Art.

          Worked in illustration, designing of Kimono, etc.

1970  Began figurative painting with Japanese gouache.

1983  Signed with Oriental Carpet Milles, LTD.

           Created original design of custom-made carpets.

1993 Began holding Art Show of “WARABE” painting.

1995 Resigned from Oriental Carpet Milles, LTD.

Began holding many exhibitions in Japan and abroad (U.S.A., iatly, U.K. India,      Australia, China Croatia, France, N.Z. Vietnam, Germany, Switzerland, etc.)

Mounted exhibitions over 120 times in the world.  

Artist Statement:

"I was born in a beautiful country town rich with history and legend. I grew up with images of classical Japan and am therefore very familiar with the people and lifestyle of old Japan.

Daily life as a textile designer and mother of two was often demanding. During the difficult times, I turned to painting as a form of relaxation and escape. I painted scenes of happy children playing peacefully. In all cultures, children are treasured. Their innocence puts our minds to rest and their smiles, which convey the essence of pure love, can heal any injured heart.

I have since left my job to create my idealized fantasy world full time.  I invite you into this world and hope that we can all play happily together in this dream world to our heart's content"        

Kumi Ito

~~~~~~~~~~~~Japan~~~~~~~~~~